Akira Nishino out, Jurgen Klinsmann in for Japan?

German legend Jurgen Klinsmann is reportedly the early frontrunner to replace outgoing Akira Nishino as Japan coach following the conclusion of their 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign.

Despite a positive display at Russia 2018, it was confirmed by the Japan Football Association that Nishino will step down from his post at the end of July.

The 63-year-old was hastily handed the Samurai Blue reins back in April on a short-term deal following the abrupt departure of Vahid Halilhodzic, having previously been employed by JFA as its technical director.

The Japan Football Association (JFA) said that national team coach Akira Nishino will step down when his term ends at the end of July pic.twitter.com/WTSLPeSUTg

Despite having just 70 days to get ready, Nishino did an excellent job with Japan as they qualified from a group also consisting Colombia, Senegal and Poland to reach the Round of 16, where they fell 3-2 to Belgium having initially led 2-0.

While the Japanese were widely lauded for their valiant display, Nishino took the blame for the loss.

“When [Belgium’s 94th-minute winner] was conceded, I blamed myself and I questioned my tactics,” he said, according to Japan Times.

“As for the result I am very disappointed. I am devastated. Yes we took the lead but we couldn’t win.

Akira Nishino: “We have been here before (in the last 16) in Japanese football and we have earned this. We deserve this. Of course, in the past when we broke through the group stage it was the same: we played to our best strengths and our today mentality is the same.” #JPNPOLpic.twitter.com/HS6YmMpquW

According to USA Today, Klinsmann – who still resides in California – is the leading candidate to take over at the helm, and he has previously expressed interest in returning to international management.

The former prolific striker led Germany to a third-place finish at the 2006 World Cup and also had six years in charge of United States.